Signs You Need A Roof Cleaning

Have you ever glanced up at your roof and noticed unsightly black streaks or patches of moss? It's not just about aesthetics – your roof might be trying to communicate something important about your home's health.

Dark markings on roof shingles are often signs of algae growth. Spores hitch a ride on the wind and, once they find a cozy spot on your roof with ample sunlight, warmth, and moisture, they start throwing a green party. Homes that skimp on insulation and ventilation are particularly prone to this issue, as they tend to hold onto moisture like a sponge. Before you know it, you've got a roof that resembles a botanical garden gone rogue.

Now, before you start worrying, it's essential to determine if your roof's issues are just skin-deep or if there's a deeper concern brewing. Think of it like a check-up for your home – ideally done at least once a year, preferably in late spring when nature's in full bloom. A roofing professional will meticulously inspect every nook and cranny, checking for signs of shingle deterioration, flashing cracks, and ensuring your gutters aren't staging their own mini waterfalls. Even something as seemingly trivial as debris buildup can spell trouble and potentially void your roof warranty. So, it's wise to call in the experts and let them work their magic.

Now, if your roof's stains are merely cosmetic, fear not – a roof cleaning session can work wonders. It's a relatively quick process, typically taking just a few hours, depending on the size of your roof. Plus, there's no need for aggressive pressure washing, which could harm your shingles. Instead, professionals use specialized cleaners that tackle the growth without harming your roof or the greenery below. And let's be real here – climbing onto your roof is not exactly a walk in the park. Leave this task to the pros unless you're a ladder-climbing aficionado with nerves of steel. Safety first, always.

But what if those stains are creeping into your attic space? Well, that's a red flag waving frantically in the breeze. It could mean your home's airflow is about as efficient as rush hour traffic. In such cases, it's wise to have a chat with a roofing expert about insulation and ventilation upgrades. Mold and algae setting up camp in your attic aren't just unsightly – they can also wreak havoc on your indoor air quality, which is especially concerning for vulnerable folks like the elderly or those with respiratory issues. Don't procrastinate on this – nip it in the bud before it becomes a full-blown issue.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Signs That It's Time To Replace Your Roof

When was the last time you inspected the condition of your roof? If it has been a while, now is the time to do it. Most roof problems are caused by snow, wind, rain, and ice, making spring the perfect season to assess your home for damage. 

When you look at your roof, what do you see? Are the shingles intact? Is any part sagging or discolored? Are there dark spots on the outside or ceiling cracks and yellowing inside? These can all be signs of a deteriorating roof. But how long is a roof actually supposed to last, and is a new roof worth the investment? Here are some things to think about when it comes to roof replacement.

1. How old is your roof? Roofs generally last about 20 years, and the reason I say generally is that the life of the roof depends on how it was installed and if it has proper insulation and ventilation. If a roof is done correctly, it can often last longer than 20 years. If you don’t know, it’s worth finding out, especially if you recently purchased your house or are thinking about buying one.

2. Are your shingles curling, splitting, or falling off? This could be due to age and general wear and tear. If this is happening, your roof will be much more susceptible to leaks, which can cause major problems both inside and out. Take a look at where your downspouts deposit onto the ground. If there are lots of granules, that’s a sign of shingle deterioration.

3. Do you see moss or mold growing on your roof? This is a problem that could be fixed with a simple roof cleaning, or it could be a sign that you have rotting plywood and damaging moisture trapped under the shingles. A simple inspection will tell you if it’s a quick cosmetic fix or something more complex that needs to be repaired.

4. Are there yellowish-brown stains or cracking on the ceiling inside the house? This might be water damage coming from the attic which is a problem you don’t want to ignore. If leaks are already happening, they are only going to get worse. 

Many remodelers will do a roof inspection for free, so if you’re unsure about how your roof is holding up, consult with an expert. I always tell the homeowners how long I think their roof will last based on its current condition and the external environment. The number one reason roofs don’t make it through their warranty is because of poor ventilation and insulation, which will lead to premature roof aging and rot. If you’re dealing with a good roofer, they will explain all the options available to you, so don’t be afraid to ask questions. 
Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.